Striking a chord for Indigenous musicians

Yamaha Music Australia (YMA) is creating a real difference in the lives and careers of First Nations musicians by philanthropically partnering with Yil Lull Studio at The Australian National University (ANU).

Yil Lull ('To Sing') Studio, led by Torres Strait Islander musician and ANU School of Music alumnus Will Kepa, is a place for First Nations people to meet, create, share and expand their stories through music. It serves the Indigenous community at no cost and with no strings attached.

"Yil Lull is a place for us, our mob, to come and meet; to create and to share; to expand on our stories; to keep our culture alive and our music alive; and to just keep that fire burning," says Will.

YMA is generously donating to the value of $85,000 in essential music equipment over three years, starting in 2022 - including drums, guitars, stage pianos, synthesisers, recording equipment and PA systems.

"It was clear from the start, [Yil Lull Studio was] lighting a way towards equality in First Nations peoples' access to music with an incredibly well thought out, responsible and sensitive approach," say representatives from YMA.

Collaboration is key in creating meaningful and just reconciliation, and this philanthropic partnership is a shining example.

"We are proud to be partnering with YMA in the equipment for this studio, which supports recording here at ANU and also on Country," says Professor Kim Cunio, Head of the ANU School of Music.

"For me, it demonstrates this idea that together we are more than we are alone, and that is what universities are at their best, places that bring us together."

Organisations like YMA have a powerful role to play in promoting equality, supporting local artists and communities, and making a real difference. By working with Yil Lull Studio, which has the expertise and experience needed to make a difference in the lives of Indigenous musicians, YMA is maximising the impact of its resources and making a positive change in the industry.

This story is featured in the 2022 Report to Donors